Peter Goan House is one of those homes that just makes people stop and stare. It’s got a story, a style, and a spot in architectural history that’s hard to beat. Built way back in 1894, this house isn’t just another old building—it’s a real piece of American design, created by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. And, even though it’s over a hundred years old, Peter Goan House still stands out in the quiet neighborhood of La Grange, Illinois. Let’s dive in and see why this house is so special, who Peter Goan was, and what makes this home a must-know for anyone interested in cool houses, history, or just a good story.
Who is Peter Goan?
Peter Goan isn’t a celebrity you’d see on TV or walking the red carpet. Instead, he’s the man who gave his name to one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s early masterpieces. Back in the late 1800s, Peter Goan was a regular guy with a big dream: he wanted a home that was different from all the rest. So, he hired a young architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, who was just starting to make a name for himself. Together, they built a house that would become a classic.
Peter Goan didn’t have a garage full of luxury cars or a fleet of private jets. He wasn’t a billionaire with yachts or private islands. But he did have the vision to work with one of America’s most creative architects. That decision turned his family home into a piece of history. Today, people still talk about Peter Goan House because it shows what happens when someone dares to be different.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Peter Goan |
| House Name | Peter Goan House |
| Architect | Frank Lloyd Wright |
| Year Built | 1894 |
| House Location | 108 S Eighth Avenue, La Grange, Illinois |
| House Value (Est.) | $1.2 million USD |
| Style | Early Wright, Shingle Style |
| Total Homes | One (Peter Goan House) |
Where Does Peter Goan Live Now?
Since Peter Goan lived in the late 1800s, he’s no longer around. But his house, the Peter Goan House, is still standing strong in La Grange, Illinois. It’s a private home now, tucked away on a quiet street, and people still live there today. Even though it’s not open to the public, fans of architecture and Frank Lloyd Wright often walk by just to catch a glimpse. The house has become a landmark in the neighborhood, and it’s one of those places that locals are proud to have nearby.
Peter Goan House
Peter Goan House isn’t just a house—it’s a work of art. Frank Lloyd Wright designed it when he was still young, but you can already see hints of the genius he would become. The house was finished in 1894, and it’s one of Wright’s earliest homes. Back then, most houses looked pretty much the same. But Peter Goan House was different from the start.
The home sits at 108 S Eighth Avenue in La Grange, Illinois. It’s got a unique look that mixes shingles with smooth plaster, and it used to have a big porch stretching across the whole front. Even though that porch is gone now, the house still keeps its charm. The design is smart, with a big central fireplace that brings everyone together. All the main rooms—living, dining, kitchen, and hall—wrap around this fireplace, making the home feel warm and welcoming.
Upstairs, there are four bedrooms and a bathroom, all connected by a central hallway. The outside of the house is covered in wood shingles on the lower part, with plaster up near the roof. Horizontal wood strips break up the shingles, giving the house a cool, layered look. This style would become even more popular in Wright’s later work.
1. Where Is Peter Goan House?
Peter Goan House is right in the heart of La Grange, Illinois. La Grange is a friendly suburb just outside Chicago, known for its leafy streets and historic homes. The address is 108 S Eighth Avenue, and the house sits quietly among other classic houses from the same era. Even though it’s a private home, it’s easy to spot if you’re walking or biking through the neighborhood. And, because it’s a Frank Lloyd Wright house, it’s marked on many local maps and walking tours.
2. Features of Peter Goan House
Peter Goan House has a bunch of features that make it stand out, even after all these years:
- Design: The house is built around a big, central fireplace. This was one of Wright’s favorite ideas—he believed the fireplace was the heart of the home. All the main rooms are connected to this spot, making it easy for families to spend time together.
- Area: The house is roomy, with space for a big family. There are four bedrooms upstairs and plenty of living space downstairs.
- Architectural Style: The outside mixes wood shingles and plaster, with long strips of wood that break up the walls. This gives the house a layered, interesting look that’s different from the plain brick or wood homes nearby.
- Porch: The original design had a wide porch that ran across the whole front of the house. It was perfect for sitting outside on warm evenings. Sadly, the porch was removed by a later owner, but you can still see where it used to be.
- Wright’s Touch: Even though it’s an early work, you can see Frank Lloyd Wright’s style all over the house. The way the rooms flow together, the focus on natural materials, and the clever use of space all show what made Wright famous later on.
Peter Goan Real Estate Portfolio
Peter Goan didn’t own a bunch of houses, private islands, or fancy vacation homes. His real estate story is simple: he built one great house, and that was enough to make a mark. The Peter Goan House is his only known home, and it’s the one that carries his name into history. Over the years, the house has had different owners, but it’s always been a private residence. The neighborhood around the house is full of other historic homes, but none have the same story or style as the Peter Goan House.
Conclusion
Peter Goan House is more than just a place to live—it’s a piece of American history. Built in 1894 by Frank Lloyd Wright for a man who wanted something special, this house shows what can happen when you mix big dreams with real talent. Even though Peter Goan wasn’t a celebrity or billionaire, his home has become famous in its own right. It’s a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is one bold idea to make a lasting mark.
Today, Peter Goan House stands in La Grange, Illinois, as a symbol of creativity and courage. It’s a favorite for fans of architecture, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good story. And, even though it’s a private home, its legend keeps growing with every passing year.
